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RUSSIA

Adventures Afloat: Russian River Voyages Between Moscow and St. Petersburg

Description: Sokos Hotels are part of Finland's premier hotel chain, with nearly forty hotels across Finland. The Original Sokos Hotel Olympia Garden opened in 2008. It is a modern and comfortable hotel located in central St. Petersburg, in a leafy park along one of the city's main roads, Moskovsky Prospekt, and a 3-minute walk to a Metro [subway] station on a direct line to the heart of the city -- Nevsky Prospekt. The hotel is conveniently located within walking or a short walking and driving distance to the Trinity Cathedral, the Yusoupov Palace Museum, the Mariinsky Theater and other famous museums and theaters.

Room amenities: The hotel has 348 comfortable, spacious, and well-equipped guest rooms, all with individual climate control and complimentary WiFi access, and all the modern amenities of a European, 4-star hotel: flat screen TVs, modern private facilities, hair dryers, and other features.

Facility amenities: The hotel has 348 comfortable rooms, a pleasant lobby, excellent meeting and conference facilities, a cozy restaurant and a lively bar. It has a well-equipped fitness center and sauna, boasts 14 hi-tech meeting venues, and a full range of standard business and leisure facilities. There are a number of shops and restaurants near the hotel, and the nearest Metro station is directly across a lovely, small park. The hotel has 24-hour security and English-speaking staff.

Smoking policy: YesSmoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Additional nights before: approx $250 /twinAdditional pre-program hotel nights can be requested by contacting Road Scholar Travel Services. RSTS will confirm the reservation and rate, and you will pay the hotel directly by credit card or cash for the additional nights. Do note that such a reservation will be separate from the program reservation, and it is likely that you will need to check out of the room and check back into a different room with the group.

Note: This is an 'Active' program, not suitable for participants using wheelchairs, walkers or scooters. Please be prepared to walking up to 2 miles daily including on unpaved uneven terrain, and also standing at some museums. Some museums do not have elevators. There are elevators at hotels, and one elevator on board the ship.

Afternoon: Arrivals at Pulkovo Airport in St. Petersburg. Look for the arrival agent, who will be holding a Road Scholar sign and will lead you to the bus for the hotel. This city of more than 5 million people was founded by Tsar Peter the Great in 1703 and is considered by many to be Russia’s cultural capital.

Independent travelers are welcome to join the pre-scheduled group transfers.
The transfer schedule will be announced in the final mailing 4-5 weeks prior to departure.
Hotel check-in: Available from 3 p.m.

Program Registration: We meet in hotel lobby at 6pm.

Dinner: In hotel dining room.

Evening: Orientation: Meet the group leader and your fellow participants. We will review the updated daily schedule and discuss responsibilities, schedule changes (if any), safety guidelines, emergency procedures, contact numbers for key staff and answer all your questions. (Note: depending on the final arrival schedule this meeting may be moved to the next AM).

Description: Sokos Hotels are part of Finland's premier hotel chain, with nearly forty hotels across Finland. The Original Sokos Hotel Olympia Garden opened in 2008. It is a modern and comfortable hotel located in central St. Petersburg, in a leafy park along one of the city's main roads, Moskovsky Prospekt, and a 3-minute walk to a Metro [subway] station on a direct line to the heart of the city -- Nevsky Prospekt. The hotel is conveniently located within walking or a short walking and driving distance to the Trinity Cathedral, the Yusoupov Palace Museum, the Mariinsky Theater and other famous museums and theaters.

Room amenities: The hotel has 348 comfortable, spacious, and well-equipped guest rooms, all with individual climate control and complimentary WiFi access, and all the modern amenities of a European, 4-star hotel: flat screen TVs, modern private facilities, hair dryers, and other features.

Facility amenities: The hotel has 348 comfortable rooms, a pleasant lobby, excellent meeting and conference facilities, a cozy restaurant and a lively bar. It has a well-equipped fitness center and sauna, boasts 14 hi-tech meeting venues, and a full range of standard business and leisure facilities. There are a number of shops and restaurants near the hotel, and the nearest Metro station is directly across a lovely, small park. The hotel has 24-hour security and English-speaking staff.

Smoking policy: YesSmoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Additional nights before: approx $250 /twinAdditional pre-program hotel nights can be requested by contacting Road Scholar Travel Services. RSTS will confirm the reservation and rate, and you will pay the hotel directly by credit card or cash for the additional nights. Do note that such a reservation will be separate from the program reservation, and it is likely that you will need to check out of the room and check back into a different room with the group.

Check in time: 3:00 PM

Day Three: Friday, May 15 - Theme of the day: “Historical overview of St. Pet...

Note: Walking in the palace and park. Comfortable shoes are a must. Rest areas are available.

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast in hotel dining room.

Morning: Begin exploring St. Petersburg with an on-site presentation on the history of St Petersburg and the Romanovs - this long-reigning Russian royal family who founded the city.
This morning we take an expert-led field trip to the town of Pushkin (Tsarskoye Selo, or “Tsar’s Village”) to explore the Catherine Palace and adjacent park. Tsarina Elizabeth built this elaborate baroque residence in 1752 to honor the memory of her mother Katarina, first wife of Tsar Peter I. This palace was later rebuilt to become the main summer residence of Tsarina Catherine II(the Great). Inside the palace, experience what some have been inspired to call the “Eighth Wonder of the World — the extraordinary Amber Room, decorated with six tons of solid amber, carved and framed in gold leaf. Learn about the room’s mysterious disappearance during World War II and theories regarding its yet-unknown whereabouts, and hear the story of its meticulous reconstruction in 2003 by a team of Russian restoration artists.

Lunch: Explore local fare on your own.

Afternoon: In the afternoon visit the memorial museum dedicated to the defenders of the city of Leningrad during the 900-day siege. Participate in the talk on the events of WWII war (Great Patriotic War) in Leningrad. See the impressive monument and a small museum featuring old documents and photographs relating the heartrending story of the city’s 900-day siege during 1941-1944.

Dinner: In hotel dining room or in the city.

Evening: Attend an evening performance
(Exact performance and the date will be announced 4-5 weeks prior to departure).

Description: For 7 nights your floating hotel will be your river cruiser. Within the river cruise fleet operating in Russia, the motor ship Mstislav Rostropovich, named after the world-famous cellist, is regarded as one of the top river cruise vessels sailing in Russia. This 4-passenger deck ship was built in Czechoslovakia in the 1980's and completely rebuilt and redesigned in 2009-10 to provide luxurious service along the Volga-Baltic Waterway. With a capacity for 212 passengers, it has beautiful staterooms featuring all the modern amenities. Comfortable public areas include a Panorama Lounge and a conference room for our onboard lectures and performances. The friendly all-Russian, English-speaking crew and staff are well-trained in servicing Western passengers.
Other on board services include:
Complimentary specialty tea and coffee station;
Complimentary wine served at dinner;
Bottled water for all meals and additional complimentary bottled water provided in cabins;
WiFi service on board (a fee applies);
Hair salon, massage room, and a small fitness room;
One elevator on board connecting all decks (limited use);
Quality linen and contemporary furnishings in cabins;
Laundry service.

Room amenities: For this program the following cabins are reserved:
1/ De luxe cabins with private balconies (approx. 170 sq. ft. plus balcony) on Boat deck 3 (type B+)
2/ Standard cabins with private balconies (approx.130 sq. ft. plus balcony) on Middle Deck 2 (type H+)
The same Standard cabin type and configuration are used for both twin and single-occupancy.
All these cabins are air conditioned, have a large window/door, 2 twin hotel style beds which can be put together or set apart, bedside tables, a vanity, chair, wardrobe, a small fridge, a safe, and a TV. All bathrooms feature a toilet, sink and shower area separated by a shower curtain.
Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily. Hairdryers are provided in all cabins; electrical outlets are for 220V and require round prongs. An extension cord is strongly recommended for CPAP users.

Facility amenities: M/S Mstislav Rostropovich has 4 passenger decks, connected both by stairs and an elevator. One of the two restaurants is situated in the stern of Boat Deck 2, and the other is in the stern of the Middle Deck. The Panorama Lounge with a bar offers a beautiful view of the area through which we sail. The Conference Room for lectures and other activities is found on the main deck, where the reception area, a gift shop, a well-equipped infirmary with a medical doctor, a massage room, and a hair salon are also located.
For the Road Scholar program, we have reserved:
Deluxe Balcony staterooms (170 sq. feet plus a private balcony, 2 twin hotel style beds on Boat Deck 3 ) and Standard staterooms (130 sq feet plus a private balcony, 2 twin beds, on Middle Deck 2) - reserved for Twin and Single use.

Smoking policy: NoSmoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Bathroom: A modern unit: a toilet/sink and a shower area separated by a curtain -- standard style and of same configuration in Deluxe cabins and in Standard cabins.

Elevator: Yes

Day Four: Saturday, May 16 - Visit to Peterhof / Transfer to the motorship ...

Visit to Peterhof / Transfer to the motorship Mstislav Rostropovich/Ship's orientation and lecture on board

Note: Walking two miles in the park. Be prepared to walk up/down steps into the Lower Park. No elevators. Rest areas are available.

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast in hotel dining room.

Morning: Continue exploring the Royal life style of the Romanovs with an expert led visit to Peterhof - the stunning summer residence of the Russian tsars - along the Gulf of Finland. Learn about Tsar Peter I and his vision to build a city on the Baltic Sea and to “open a window on the West” for then-medieval Russia in the early 1700s. Walk in the famous Lower Park amid more than 150 fountains and other constructions beautifully restored to their former splendor.
(note: inside visits to the Grand Palace and other museums on site are not part of the visit).

Lunch: Explore local fare on your own.

Afternoon: Transfer to and embark the motorship Mstislav Rostropovich
After a short rest attend a lecture on "Russia today"(prepared for Road Scholars).

Dinner: In the ship's dining room.

Evening: Attend a ship orientation meeting introducing you to the vessel and enjoy a free evening onboard.

Description: For 7 nights your floating hotel will be your river cruiser. Within the river cruise fleet operating in Russia, the motor ship Mstislav Rostropovich, named after the world-famous cellist, is regarded as one of the top river cruise vessels sailing in Russia. This 4-passenger deck ship was built in Czechoslovakia in the 1980's and completely rebuilt and redesigned in 2009-10 to provide luxurious service along the Volga-Baltic Waterway. With a capacity for 212 passengers, it has beautiful staterooms featuring all the modern amenities. Comfortable public areas include a Panorama Lounge and a conference room for our onboard lectures and performances. The friendly all-Russian, English-speaking crew and staff are well-trained in servicing Western passengers.
Other on board services include:
Complimentary specialty tea and coffee station;
Complimentary wine served at dinner;
Bottled water for all meals and additional complimentary bottled water provided in cabins;
WiFi service on board (a fee applies);
Hair salon, massage room, and a small fitness room;
One elevator on board connecting all decks (limited use);
Quality linen and contemporary furnishings in cabins;
Laundry service.

Room amenities: For this program the following cabins are reserved:
1/ De luxe cabins with private balconies (approx. 170 sq. ft. plus balcony) on Boat deck 3 (type B+)
2/ Standard cabins with private balconies (approx.130 sq. ft. plus balcony) on Middle Deck 2 (type H+)
The same Standard cabin type and configuration are used for both twin and single-occupancy.
All these cabins are air conditioned, have a large window/door, 2 twin hotel style beds which can be put together or set apart, bedside tables, a vanity, chair, wardrobe, a small fridge, a safe, and a TV. All bathrooms feature a toilet, sink and shower area separated by a shower curtain.
Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily. Hairdryers are provided in all cabins; electrical outlets are for 220V and require round prongs. An extension cord is strongly recommended for CPAP users.

Facility amenities: M/S Mstislav Rostropovich has 4 passenger decks, connected both by stairs and an elevator. One of the two restaurants is situated in the stern of Boat Deck 2, and the other is in the stern of the Middle Deck. The Panorama Lounge with a bar offers a beautiful view of the area through which we sail. The Conference Room for lectures and other activities is found on the main deck, where the reception area, a gift shop, a well-equipped infirmary with a medical doctor, a massage room, and a hair salon are also located.
For the Road Scholar program, we have reserved:
Deluxe Balcony staterooms (170 sq. feet plus a private balcony, 2 twin hotel style beds on Boat Deck 3 ) and Standard staterooms (130 sq feet plus a private balcony, 2 twin beds, on Middle Deck 2) - reserved for Twin and Single use.

Smoking policy: NoSmoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Bathroom: A modern unit: a toilet/sink and a shower area separated by a curtain -- standard style and of same configuration in Deluxe cabins and in Standard cabins.

Elevator: Yes

Day Five: Sunday, May 17 - St. Petersburg's history and architecture by bus ...

St. Petersburg's history and architecture by bus / Hermitage Museum / SET SAIL

Note: For city excursions, air-conditioned motorcoaches are used with no onboard facilities. Rest stops are made.
At the Hermitage, be prepared for walking two miles, and possible standing .Rest areas are available.

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast in the ship's dining room.

Morning: After breakfast have a panoramic city drive. Built on the order of Tsar Peter I (the Great) to rival Amsterdam and Venice, a city the tsar greatly admired, St. Petersburg became the new capital of Russia in 1712 and was the seat of the Russian Empire for over two centuries. Architectural and historical highlights of this stunningly beautiful city affectionately dubbed the "Venice of the North" include the Peter and Paul Fortress, Palace Square, the Winter Palace of the Russian tsars, and numerous canals and graceful bridges. Drive along Nevsky Prospekt (the city’s main boulevard), by St. Isaac's Cathedral, by the Bronze Horseman statue (dedicated to Peter I), and see many other important sights leaving you with a lasting impression of the city’s beauty and grandeur.

Lunch: In a city restaurant along the route of the bus excursion.

Afternoon: This afternoon enjoy a visit to the Hermitage Museum, one of world's greatest art galleries. This dazzling collection was founded by Tsarina Catherine II the Great in the mid-18th century. Today the museum collection (about 2,7 million items) is housed in six buildings, including the Winter Palace - the former residence of the tsars, where the largest collection of world-famous paintings is displayed, including works by the Old Masters, Impressionists and Post-Impressionists) are displayed. Delight in art treasures from all corners of the world as a licensed expert leads you among the stunning staircases and opulent rooms.

Dinner: In the ship's dining room.

Evening: SET SAIL AT 7 PM.
Enjoy an evening program onboard including a concert.

Description: For 7 nights your floating hotel will be your river cruiser. Within the river cruise fleet operating in Russia, the motor ship Mstislav Rostropovich, named after the world-famous cellist, is regarded as one of the top river cruise vessels sailing in Russia. This 4-passenger deck ship was built in Czechoslovakia in the 1980's and completely rebuilt and redesigned in 2009-10 to provide luxurious service along the Volga-Baltic Waterway. With a capacity for 212 passengers, it has beautiful staterooms featuring all the modern amenities. Comfortable public areas include a Panorama Lounge and a conference room for our onboard lectures and performances. The friendly all-Russian, English-speaking crew and staff are well-trained in servicing Western passengers.
Other on board services include:
Complimentary specialty tea and coffee station;
Complimentary wine served at dinner;
Bottled water for all meals and additional complimentary bottled water provided in cabins;
WiFi service on board (a fee applies);
Hair salon, massage room, and a small fitness room;
One elevator on board connecting all decks (limited use);
Quality linen and contemporary furnishings in cabins;
Laundry service.

Room amenities: For this program the following cabins are reserved:
1/ De luxe cabins with private balconies (approx. 170 sq. ft. plus balcony) on Boat deck 3 (type B+)
2/ Standard cabins with private balconies (approx.130 sq. ft. plus balcony) on Middle Deck 2 (type H+)
The same Standard cabin type and configuration are used for both twin and single-occupancy.
All these cabins are air conditioned, have a large window/door, 2 twin hotel style beds which can be put together or set apart, bedside tables, a vanity, chair, wardrobe, a small fridge, a safe, and a TV. All bathrooms feature a toilet, sink and shower area separated by a shower curtain.
Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily. Hairdryers are provided in all cabins; electrical outlets are for 220V and require round prongs. An extension cord is strongly recommended for CPAP users.

Facility amenities: M/S Mstislav Rostropovich has 4 passenger decks, connected both by stairs and an elevator. One of the two restaurants is situated in the stern of Boat Deck 2, and the other is in the stern of the Middle Deck. The Panorama Lounge with a bar offers a beautiful view of the area through which we sail. The Conference Room for lectures and other activities is found on the main deck, where the reception area, a gift shop, a well-equipped infirmary with a medical doctor, a massage room, and a hair salon are also located.
For the Road Scholar program, we have reserved:
Deluxe Balcony staterooms (170 sq. feet plus a private balcony, 2 twin hotel style beds on Boat Deck 3 ) and Standard staterooms (130 sq feet plus a private balcony, 2 twin beds, on Middle Deck 2) - reserved for Twin and Single use.

Smoking policy: NoSmoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Bathroom: A modern unit: a toilet/sink and a shower area separated by a curtain -- standard style and of same configuration in Deluxe cabins and in Standard cabins.

Morning: Participate in a presentation on the arts and crafts of the regions we are sailing through. Arrive in Mandrogy village. Enjoy the lake region and beautiful northern forest. Take a stroll in this recreated quaint village dotted with wooden cottages - an open air museum, reproducing a typical rural Russian settlement of the 19th century. Free time.
Note: this is a mandatory (technical) stop over required for all river vessels.

Lunch: A shish-kebab lunch is served ashore in Mandrogy Village.

Afternoon: Later in the afternoon, back on board attend a lecture on Russian national identity and modern challenges. (prepared for Road Scholars).
Continue sailing down the 139-mile long Svir River and then along the southern shores of Lake Onega, one of the world's purest, and Lake Ladoga, the second- and first-largest lakes in Europe, respectively. More like inland seas than lakes, these immense bodies of water can experience waves as high as four feet during inclement weather. Glide past sandy and rocky beaches and admire beautiful shores overgrown with graceful willows, tall trees and stately pines.
Enjoy an on board program including Russian language lessons.

Description: For 7 nights your floating hotel will be your river cruiser. Within the river cruise fleet operating in Russia, the motor ship Mstislav Rostropovich, named after the world-famous cellist, is regarded as one of the top river cruise vessels sailing in Russia. This 4-passenger deck ship was built in Czechoslovakia in the 1980's and completely rebuilt and redesigned in 2009-10 to provide luxurious service along the Volga-Baltic Waterway. With a capacity for 212 passengers, it has beautiful staterooms featuring all the modern amenities. Comfortable public areas include a Panorama Lounge and a conference room for our onboard lectures and performances. The friendly all-Russian, English-speaking crew and staff are well-trained in servicing Western passengers.
Other on board services include:
Complimentary specialty tea and coffee station;
Complimentary wine served at dinner;
Bottled water for all meals and additional complimentary bottled water provided in cabins;
WiFi service on board (a fee applies);
Hair salon, massage room, and a small fitness room;
One elevator on board connecting all decks (limited use);
Quality linen and contemporary furnishings in cabins;
Laundry service.

Room amenities: For this program the following cabins are reserved:
1/ De luxe cabins with private balconies (approx. 170 sq. ft. plus balcony) on Boat deck 3 (type B+)
2/ Standard cabins with private balconies (approx.130 sq. ft. plus balcony) on Middle Deck 2 (type H+)
The same Standard cabin type and configuration are used for both twin and single-occupancy.
All these cabins are air conditioned, have a large window/door, 2 twin hotel style beds which can be put together or set apart, bedside tables, a vanity, chair, wardrobe, a small fridge, a safe, and a TV. All bathrooms feature a toilet, sink and shower area separated by a shower curtain.
Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily. Hairdryers are provided in all cabins; electrical outlets are for 220V and require round prongs. An extension cord is strongly recommended for CPAP users.

Facility amenities: M/S Mstislav Rostropovich has 4 passenger decks, connected both by stairs and an elevator. One of the two restaurants is situated in the stern of Boat Deck 2, and the other is in the stern of the Middle Deck. The Panorama Lounge with a bar offers a beautiful view of the area through which we sail. The Conference Room for lectures and other activities is found on the main deck, where the reception area, a gift shop, a well-equipped infirmary with a medical doctor, a massage room, and a hair salon are also located.
For the Road Scholar program, we have reserved:
Deluxe Balcony staterooms (170 sq. feet plus a private balcony, 2 twin hotel style beds on Boat Deck 3 ) and Standard staterooms (130 sq feet plus a private balcony, 2 twin beds, on Middle Deck 2) - reserved for Twin and Single use.

Smoking policy: NoSmoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Bathroom: A modern unit: a toilet/sink and a shower area separated by a curtain -- standard style and of same configuration in Deluxe cabins and in Standard cabins.

8-11 am: Wooden architecture of Kizhi Island / Lecture on famous Russian artists and musicians of the Volga and lake regions

Note: Walking excursion requires comfortable shoes.

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast in the ship's dining room.

Morning: Arrive at Kizhi —a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the 1,650 islands on Lake Onega — for an expert-led walking excursion among the island’s unique wooden churches. These fairy-tale structures discovered on the island are a superb example of traditional Russian wooden architecture. Most spectacular among them is the Church of the Transfiguration, adorned with 22 domes built in 1714 without the use of a single nail and famed for its rare icons and iconostasis.

Lunch: In the ship's dining room.

Afternoon: Enjoy a presentation on famous Russian artists and musicians whose life and creations are connected to the Lake and Volga regions (prepared for Road Scholars).
Later in the afternoon participate in a Russian language class.

Description: For 7 nights your floating hotel will be your river cruiser. Within the river cruise fleet operating in Russia, the motor ship Mstislav Rostropovich, named after the world-famous cellist, is regarded as one of the top river cruise vessels sailing in Russia. This 4-passenger deck ship was built in Czechoslovakia in the 1980's and completely rebuilt and redesigned in 2009-10 to provide luxurious service along the Volga-Baltic Waterway. With a capacity for 212 passengers, it has beautiful staterooms featuring all the modern amenities. Comfortable public areas include a Panorama Lounge and a conference room for our onboard lectures and performances. The friendly all-Russian, English-speaking crew and staff are well-trained in servicing Western passengers.
Other on board services include:
Complimentary specialty tea and coffee station;
Complimentary wine served at dinner;
Bottled water for all meals and additional complimentary bottled water provided in cabins;
WiFi service on board (a fee applies);
Hair salon, massage room, and a small fitness room;
One elevator on board connecting all decks (limited use);
Quality linen and contemporary furnishings in cabins;
Laundry service.

Room amenities: For this program the following cabins are reserved:
1/ De luxe cabins with private balconies (approx. 170 sq. ft. plus balcony) on Boat deck 3 (type B+)
2/ Standard cabins with private balconies (approx.130 sq. ft. plus balcony) on Middle Deck 2 (type H+)
The same Standard cabin type and configuration are used for both twin and single-occupancy.
All these cabins are air conditioned, have a large window/door, 2 twin hotel style beds which can be put together or set apart, bedside tables, a vanity, chair, wardrobe, a small fridge, a safe, and a TV. All bathrooms feature a toilet, sink and shower area separated by a shower curtain.
Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily. Hairdryers are provided in all cabins; electrical outlets are for 220V and require round prongs. An extension cord is strongly recommended for CPAP users.

Facility amenities: M/S Mstislav Rostropovich has 4 passenger decks, connected both by stairs and an elevator. One of the two restaurants is situated in the stern of Boat Deck 2, and the other is in the stern of the Middle Deck. The Panorama Lounge with a bar offers a beautiful view of the area through which we sail. The Conference Room for lectures and other activities is found on the main deck, where the reception area, a gift shop, a well-equipped infirmary with a medical doctor, a massage room, and a hair salon are also located.
For the Road Scholar program, we have reserved:
Deluxe Balcony staterooms (170 sq. feet plus a private balcony, 2 twin hotel style beds on Boat Deck 3 ) and Standard staterooms (130 sq feet plus a private balcony, 2 twin beds, on Middle Deck 2) - reserved for Twin and Single use.

Smoking policy: NoSmoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Bathroom: A modern unit: a toilet/sink and a shower area separated by a curtain -- standard style and of same configuration in Deluxe cabins and in Standard cabins.

Morning: Lecture on Russia's medieval history (prepared for Road Scholars). Arrive in Goritzy.

Lunch: In the ship's dining room.

Afternoon: Goritzy is a small, picturesque village located near the Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery, founded in the 15th century and famous for its collection of rare icons. This area is also known for its convent, which was used as a place of exile for politically unpopular ladies of nobility, including Maria Nagaya, seventh wife of Tsar Ivan IV (the Terrible). She was exiled here from Uglich by Boris Godunov, the notorious Russian ruler of the late 1500s. Join a local expert on an informative walk describing this historic farming village, meet the locals and see their homes.
Later back on board participate in an onboard presentation on Russian tea ceremony traditions, and learn Russian songs in Russian.

Description: For 7 nights your floating hotel will be your river cruiser. Within the river cruise fleet operating in Russia, the motor ship Mstislav Rostropovich, named after the world-famous cellist, is regarded as one of the top river cruise vessels sailing in Russia. This 4-passenger deck ship was built in Czechoslovakia in the 1980's and completely rebuilt and redesigned in 2009-10 to provide luxurious service along the Volga-Baltic Waterway. With a capacity for 212 passengers, it has beautiful staterooms featuring all the modern amenities. Comfortable public areas include a Panorama Lounge and a conference room for our onboard lectures and performances. The friendly all-Russian, English-speaking crew and staff are well-trained in servicing Western passengers.
Other on board services include:
Complimentary specialty tea and coffee station;
Complimentary wine served at dinner;
Bottled water for all meals and additional complimentary bottled water provided in cabins;
WiFi service on board (a fee applies);
Hair salon, massage room, and a small fitness room;
One elevator on board connecting all decks (limited use);
Quality linen and contemporary furnishings in cabins;
Laundry service.

Room amenities: For this program the following cabins are reserved:
1/ De luxe cabins with private balconies (approx. 170 sq. ft. plus balcony) on Boat deck 3 (type B+)
2/ Standard cabins with private balconies (approx.130 sq. ft. plus balcony) on Middle Deck 2 (type H+)
The same Standard cabin type and configuration are used for both twin and single-occupancy.
All these cabins are air conditioned, have a large window/door, 2 twin hotel style beds which can be put together or set apart, bedside tables, a vanity, chair, wardrobe, a small fridge, a safe, and a TV. All bathrooms feature a toilet, sink and shower area separated by a shower curtain.
Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily. Hairdryers are provided in all cabins; electrical outlets are for 220V and require round prongs. An extension cord is strongly recommended for CPAP users.

Facility amenities: M/S Mstislav Rostropovich has 4 passenger decks, connected both by stairs and an elevator. One of the two restaurants is situated in the stern of Boat Deck 2, and the other is in the stern of the Middle Deck. The Panorama Lounge with a bar offers a beautiful view of the area through which we sail. The Conference Room for lectures and other activities is found on the main deck, where the reception area, a gift shop, a well-equipped infirmary with a medical doctor, a massage room, and a hair salon are also located.
For the Road Scholar program, we have reserved:
Deluxe Balcony staterooms (170 sq. feet plus a private balcony, 2 twin hotel style beds on Boat Deck 3 ) and Standard staterooms (130 sq feet plus a private balcony, 2 twin beds, on Middle Deck 2) - reserved for Twin and Single use.

Smoking policy: NoSmoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Bathroom: A modern unit: a toilet/sink and a shower area separated by a curtain -- standard style and of same configuration in Deluxe cabins and in Standard cabins.

Morning: Arrive at the ancient town of Uglich — founded in 1148 and pronounced “Ooglich” — and join a local expert for a walk through this quaint, old town. The view of the town from the Volga River is especially lovely, with the blue-domed Cathedral of the Resurrection and St. John's Church looming on the horizon. At the end of the 16th century, Maria Nagaya, seventh wife of Ivan the Terrible, lived in exile in the kremlin (fortress) at Uglich. It was here that Tsarevich Dmitry, son of the deceased Ivan the Terrible, met his "mysterious" death in 1591 and where the Church of St. Dmitry on the (Spilled) Blood stands today. Located within the kremlin walls is the oldest building in Uglich, the Palace of Tsarevich Dmitry, which you’ll see from the outside.

Lunch: In the ship's dining room.

Afternoon: This afternoon, take part in a program onboard the ship: learn about Russian fairy tales, and folklore, and learn to sing Russian songs in Russian.

Dinner: In the ship's dining room.

Evening: Spend the evening at the Captain's Farewell Dinner celebrating the last sailing night onboard the ship before arriving in Moscow.

Description: For 7 nights your floating hotel will be your river cruiser. Within the river cruise fleet operating in Russia, the motor ship Mstislav Rostropovich, named after the world-famous cellist, is regarded as one of the top river cruise vessels sailing in Russia. This 4-passenger deck ship was built in Czechoslovakia in the 1980's and completely rebuilt and redesigned in 2009-10 to provide luxurious service along the Volga-Baltic Waterway. With a capacity for 212 passengers, it has beautiful staterooms featuring all the modern amenities. Comfortable public areas include a Panorama Lounge and a conference room for our onboard lectures and performances. The friendly all-Russian, English-speaking crew and staff are well-trained in servicing Western passengers.
Other on board services include:
Complimentary specialty tea and coffee station;
Complimentary wine served at dinner;
Bottled water for all meals and additional complimentary bottled water provided in cabins;
WiFi service on board (a fee applies);
Hair salon, massage room, and a small fitness room;
One elevator on board connecting all decks (limited use);
Quality linen and contemporary furnishings in cabins;
Laundry service.

Room amenities: For this program the following cabins are reserved:
1/ De luxe cabins with private balconies (approx. 170 sq. ft. plus balcony) on Boat deck 3 (type B+)
2/ Standard cabins with private balconies (approx.130 sq. ft. plus balcony) on Middle Deck 2 (type H+)
The same Standard cabin type and configuration are used for both twin and single-occupancy.
All these cabins are air conditioned, have a large window/door, 2 twin hotel style beds which can be put together or set apart, bedside tables, a vanity, chair, wardrobe, a small fridge, a safe, and a TV. All bathrooms feature a toilet, sink and shower area separated by a shower curtain.
Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily. Hairdryers are provided in all cabins; electrical outlets are for 220V and require round prongs. An extension cord is strongly recommended for CPAP users.

Facility amenities: M/S Mstislav Rostropovich has 4 passenger decks, connected both by stairs and an elevator. One of the two restaurants is situated in the stern of Boat Deck 2, and the other is in the stern of the Middle Deck. The Panorama Lounge with a bar offers a beautiful view of the area through which we sail. The Conference Room for lectures and other activities is found on the main deck, where the reception area, a gift shop, a well-equipped infirmary with a medical doctor, a massage room, and a hair salon are also located.
For the Road Scholar program, we have reserved:
Deluxe Balcony staterooms (170 sq. feet plus a private balcony, 2 twin hotel style beds on Boat Deck 3 ) and Standard staterooms (130 sq feet plus a private balcony, 2 twin beds, on Middle Deck 2) - reserved for Twin and Single use.

Smoking policy: NoSmoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Bathroom: A modern unit: a toilet/sink and a shower area separated by a curtain -- standard style and of same configuration in Deluxe cabins and in Standard cabins.

Morning: Attend a lecture on 'Russia/USSR in WWII" (prepared for Road Scholars).
Later delve into matters of life in today’s Russia during an informal round-table discussion and subsequent Q&A session.

Lunch: In the ship's dining room.

Afternoon: Arrive in Moscow and explore its cultural and historical treasures by bus, while an expert teaches you about the modern life of Moscow residents. Stop along the way at Moscow University, Manezh Square, the Bolshoi Theater, the exterior of Novodevichi Convent, the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, and other important sites and landmarks. Continue your afternoon in Moscow with an expert-led field trip to the legendary Kremlin compound. Go inside the Kremlin walls and visit the grounds as you learn about the medieval history of Moscow and see and take pictures of the fortress walls, armory, cathedrals and palace, with an opportunity to photograph the famous Tsar Cannon and Tsar Bell.

Dinner: On board the ship or packed dinner snack in the city.

Evening: Evening free to enjoy Moscow independently, if desired, or relax on board.

Description: The Moscow Marriott Tverskaya Hotel is housed in a beautiful, modern building in the city center; it is a rather small and comfortable hotel, recently renovated (162 non-smoking rooms and suites). It is located approximately 2.5 miles from Red Square, the Kremlin, and the Bolshoi Theatre. Public transportation (metro [subway] and trolleybus) is easily available.
This is a totally non-smoking hotel.

Room amenities: Guest rooms are air conditioned, spacious, well appointed and quiet, most of them have 2 twin beds, Guest rooms include all amenities of a modern Marriott hotel, including flat screen TVs, modern bathrooms with standard amenities and a hair dryer, telephone and internet connection (a fee applies in standard rooms). Free internet connection is available in the hotel lobby.

Facility amenities: This beautiful hotel has a nice lobby, two nice restaurants, a lobby bar, free Internet connection on the ground floor and available for a fee in guest rooms, foreign exchange office, ATM machine in the lobby, small business center, concierge service, room service, laundry service, a small fitness center and health club, and safe deposit boxes at the front desk. This is a non-smoking hotel. It employs English-speaking staff and offers 24-hour security.

Smoking policy: YesSmoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Additional nights after: $300/twin approx.Additional pre/post program hotel nights can be requested by contacting Road Scholar Travel Services. RSTS will confirm the reservation and rate, and you will pay the hotel directly by credit card or cash for the additional nights. Do note that such a reservation will be separate from the program reservation, and it is likely that you will need to check out of the room and check back into a different room with the group.

Morning: Disembark. Participate in an expert-led visit to the Armory Chamber in the Kremlin compound, housing a rich collection of royal jewels, including famous Faberge eggs and many other treasures of the Russian tsars.
Following the visit enjoy a walk in Red Square: see the Kremlin walls, visit GUM department store and take pictures of St. Basil's Cathedral.

Lunch: Lunch in the city on your own.

Afternoon: Transfer to hotel. Check in and short rest before the evening.
.

Dinner: Dinner in city restaurant.

Evening: Attend an evening performance
(exact performance will be announced 4-5 weeks prior to departure).

Description: The Moscow Marriott Tverskaya Hotel is housed in a beautiful, modern building in the city center; it is a rather small and comfortable hotel, recently renovated (162 non-smoking rooms and suites). It is located approximately 2.5 miles from Red Square, the Kremlin, and the Bolshoi Theatre. Public transportation (metro [subway] and trolleybus) is easily available.
This is a totally non-smoking hotel.

Room amenities: Guest rooms are air conditioned, spacious, well appointed and quiet, most of them have 2 twin beds, Guest rooms include all amenities of a modern Marriott hotel, including flat screen TVs, modern bathrooms with standard amenities and a hair dryer, telephone and internet connection (a fee applies in standard rooms). Free internet connection is available in the hotel lobby.

Facility amenities: This beautiful hotel has a nice lobby, two nice restaurants, a lobby bar, free Internet connection on the ground floor and available for a fee in guest rooms, foreign exchange office, ATM machine in the lobby, small business center, concierge service, room service, laundry service, a small fitness center and health club, and safe deposit boxes at the front desk. This is a non-smoking hotel. It employs English-speaking staff and offers 24-hour security.

Smoking policy: YesSmoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Additional nights after: $300/twin approx.Additional pre/post program hotel nights can be requested by contacting Road Scholar Travel Services. RSTS will confirm the reservation and rate, and you will pay the hotel directly by credit card or cash for the additional nights. Do note that such a reservation will be separate from the program reservation, and it is likely that you will need to check out of the room and check back into a different room with the group.

Morning: An expert led visit to Tretyakov Picture Gallery-2, featuring a collection of Russian art of the 20th century.

Lunch: Lunch on your own in the city.

Afternoon: Participate in a special visit to the Great Patriotic War Memorial Museum -- Poklonnaya Gora [Hill of Homage]. See the museum exposition led by a local host.
Spend the rest of the afternoon in the city on your own ( time permitting).

Morning: Program ends. Transfers to airport for all participants holding air tickets issued by Road Scholar. Independent travelers are welcome to join the pre-arranged group bus transfer(s), or arrange a taxi at the hotel desk. Transfer schedule to be announced by the Group Leader 24 hours in advance.

Important information about your itinerary: Please know that while we do everything we can to finalize all aspects of our programs well in advance, there are logistics that occasionally must be altered. Our website will reflect the most recent information, and we are committed to providing you with final program details no later than eight weeks prior to the start of programs outside the U.S. and three weeks prior to the start of programs within the U.S. If you ever have questions about your program, please don't hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to assist you.

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The latest in light, portable, easy-to-use QUIETVOX listening devices are available on Road Scholar programs.* Whether you are outdoors, in a crowd or in a museum environment where speaking loudly is discouraged, a listening device makes it feel like our experts are speaking clearly and directly to you. Hear for yourself on a Road Scholar adventure!

*Please note that due to the nature of some programs, the remote location or government regulations, listening devices may not be available. If you’d like to know for sure if your program will offer listening devices, just call and ask an Advisor!